Orchid Help

I love orchids; I think they are one of the most beautiful flowers, and I really want to be able to keep one as a houseplant. I have owned two of them before; both eventually died. I kept them in bright indirect light indoors, and frequently misted them with water. I bought orchid potting mix to put them in as well, thinking that I would have no problems keeping them alive. Obviously I was wrong! The strongest one survived about 6-8 months before it died. I never fertilized them at all, which may have been part of the problem.

I really want to get another one, but I’m afraid that I will just kill it again. I am doing some more research before I decide whether or not I’m going to buy another one. Here it says that one of the most common mistakes made is overwatering. I think that I may have done that, resulting in the rotting of the roots. The other thing that I’m worried about is whether or not I will be able to get it to flower again after I get it. I read that blooming usually happens in the fall when the plant is exposed to a nighttime drop in temperature of approximately 5-6 degrees for about 2 to 4 weeks in a row. The only way I think I could make that work is if I remembered to turn my thermostat down every night before bed. That may sound like an easy task, but I am the master of forgetfulness.

If I decide to get one, I’m sure I will be asking for tips and such. I saw some really beautiful little yellow ones when I was shopping a few weeks ago. I think I might have to get one after my next paycheck. I have a nice south-facing window I can put it in, and I will try to be more attentive to it this time. Wish me luck!